Laguna Beach Vacations

It certainly won't be the last time for fun filled Laguna Beach vacations.  I had never been there even though we are so close.  We headed out from San Diego on a very warm September Thursday morning, destined for four days of fun and sun in Laguna and Newport Beach.

Newport Beach and Laguna Beach are located right next to each other and are just north of San Diego and south of Los Angeles.  A lightly traveled toll road and set of rolling hills seals off these communities from the remainder of Southern California.  You would never know that two major U.S. cities were only minutes away. 

Where to Stay

Ninety miles, and a few hours later, we arrive at the Marriott Newport Coast Villas and Spa.  This is a very large, beautiful and impressive collection of one, two and three bedroom terraced suites nestled in the hills overlooking the Pacific.

This is probably the best property that I have visited in terms and things to do for the entire family.  Add in the landscape, beautiful villas and ocean that is just a short walk away, make this resort one of my all time favorites.

The Wedge

First stop was a trip to Newport Beach and the famous Wedge.  The harbor jetty meets the beach at a very odd angle and creates huge waves that come out of nowhere.  Waves of 20 to 30 feet are not uncommon.

This is a very popular spot not only for sunbathing on a large beach, with plenty of room for all activities, but for body surfing.  This is a great place to sit at the edge of the sand, where the beach meets the jetty, and watch body surfers take on the huge waves.

Laguna Beach

About 7-8 miles south of Newport Beach is Laguna Beach.  This is a great town to roam the hilly streets of the city and have lunch or dinner perched on the cliffs overlooking the Pacific.  This is one of the best sunset dinner locations on the west coast with a very nice selection of great restaurants to choose from.

Laguna Beach is a great place for a sunset walk.

Best Restaurants

We visited some great restaurants with tasty food and awesome views.  Read more....

We also made several stops at a great chocolate shop.  One of my favorites was the extra large dark chocolate peanut butter cup

And....if that wasn't enough, topped it off with a trip to the gelato shop.

The Best Time for Laguna Beach Vacations

Laguna Beach vacations are great anytime of the year but there are better months to visit, than others.  Our weather page provides details on the best weather seasons, average rainfall amounts, real time satellite map, current conditions and five day forecast.

Laguna Beach Guide